Each year I write a column for the holiday season devoted to great gift ideas. In this economy, I want to share some great things for under $30.
Just in case you are wondering how I decide what gifts to include, I choose my gift list from the things I have personally bought during the year that I find so fabulous, I choose to buy more than one to give as gifts.
This year, I went all the way to the Napa Valley to visit a girlfriend, only to find myself back home sampling the best merlot ever at Port Gardner Bay Winery. This $16 bottle of wine tasted like the $50 bottle in Napa. I’m sure their other wines are good too, but I loved their merlot.
I always think a book makes a wonderful gift. I love to give and receive books. These were my favorite reads in 2011:
“The Watery Part of the World” by Michael Parker ($23.95): This book is a moving story about three people living on a remote island. The intimacy of island life and the odd things you know about each other rings true. I have lived most of my life on islands.
Both men and women would appreciate the story, characters and the nature of island life. The characters are older, and I think this book would be most appreciated by people over age 50.
“Cutting for Stone” by Abraham Verghese ($15.95): This book has been widely praised and for good reason. It is not to be missed.
“The True Memoirs of Little K” by Adrienne Sharp ($25): This novel transported me back in time to Russia, at exactly the time when my great grandparents left Russia. It allowed me a glimpse into the world they left.
“Stories I Only Tell My Friends” by Rob Lowe ($26): I was surprised that I loved this book. This would be enjoyed by people who grew up with the Brat Pack. Great stories, and you come away absolutely amazed at how tenacious Rob Lowe is and how alone he was carving a place for himself.
One of my best purchases this year was a Ceramix Xtreme blow dryer by Jilbere for $25. This particular dryer is for anyone with long hair and would like to dry it fast. I ordered mine online at Sally Beauty.
Beautiful scarves are still in fashion and a big hit. Most local shops have lovely scarves. Renee’s in Everett has a collection of stunning scarves. Stunning is what you want in a scarf.
There are so many choices. Find one that speaks to the spirit: playful, artistic, bold, quiet, go with something special about the recipient.
I like pajamas as gifts. December and pajamas just go together like hot chocolate and whipped cream. Who wouldn’t like a pair of cozy PJs?
My favorite DVD this year was the two-season set of “Jericho.” I’ve already given it twice as a gift. I love the way the characters care for each other. I’m a crazy “Jericho” fan.
This is rated for ages 17 and and older. It’s great to watch with teens because there are lots of issues to discuss about the characters and choices.
Here are some gifts to encourage or support people who value saving money:
Open a savings account at a local bank and give it as a gift. A local bank book with a bow on it. This was a popular gift a long time ago.
Many people bring their lunch to work, so why not splurge on some nice lunch-to-go containers for hot and cold foods.
Do you have a coffee drinker on your list I love the L.L. Bean stainless steel vacuum bottle. Have it engraved to make a great gift. The 34-oz. size come with a carrier.
Find someone or something you care about and give what you can to others.
Wishing you health and joy this season.
Sarri Gilman is a freelance writer living on Whidbey Island and director of Leadership Snohomish County. Her column on living with meaning and purpose runs every other Tuesday in The Herald. You can email her at features@heraldnet.com.
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